Saturday, March 9, 2013

Suzuki SX4 Crossover Debuts in Geneva With First-Ever Double-Sliding Sunroof

Suzuki SX4 Crossover Debuts in Geneva With First-Ever Double-Sliding Sunroof The new production-ready Suzuki SX4 Crossover debuting at the Geneva auto show is bigger than its predecessor, a car that until recently served drivers seeking all-wheel drive in an affordable package. The new SX4 Crossover, which will be the first to offer a double-sliding sunroof, traces its roots to the Suzuki S-Cross concept from the 2012 Paris Motor Show,  and the automaker has retained the SX4 name that stands for Suzuki (S) Crossover (X) Four-Wheel-Drive (4).

Suzuki SX4 Crossover Debuts in Geneva With First-Ever Double-Sliding Sunroof

Suzuki SX4 Crossover Debuts in Geneva With First-Ever Double-Sliding Sunroof

 Suzuki SX4 Crossover Debuts in Geneva With First-Ever Double-Sliding Sunroof

Suzuki SX4 Crossover Debuts in Geneva With First-Ever Double-Sliding Sunroof













Suzuki SX4 Crossover Debuts in Geneva With First-Ever Double-Sliding Sunroof

Suzuki SX4 side 300x187 imageThe SX4 Crossover fuses the current SX4 SportBack’s square styling with the S-Cross concept’s flowing design, while adding unique features such as the world’s first double-sliding panoramic moonroof, which the automaker claims is among the largest opening in the segment. The SX4 Crossover’s new shape with improved aerodynamics and lighter high-strength steel contribute to lower emissions and increased fuel economy. LED running lights integrated into the headlight assembly and a bold grille form the SX4 Crossover’s front end, while a body line below the greenhouse runs down the side from the headlights to the taillights.

The 4.0-inch longer wheelbase is now at 102.4 inches, while the 169.3-inch overall length has grown 6.5 inches. Width is up 0.4 inches (69.5 inches) and height is up 0.2 to 0.4 inches (61.8 to 62.0 inches) depending on whether the car rides on 16- or 17-inch wheels. Larger exterior dimensions improve interior space including the cargo area, which has grown by just over 50 percent.

Suzuki SX4 rear three quarters 300x187 imageMotivation comes from a choice of 1.6-liter I-4 engines. Based on the current naturally aspirated gas engine, the base engine features lower friction and lower weight for improved efficiency. The optional turbodiesel uses a variable geometry turbocharger for more torque throughout the powerband. While no power figures have been released for either engine, an engine stop-start system helps save fuel. A five-speed manual backs the gas engine, while the turbodiesel is mated to a six-speed manual. The CVT available on the gas engine features a seven-speed manual mode with paddle shifters. Suzuki’s next generation all-wheel-drive system is available with either engine.

Skip ahead to 2:14 in the video below to see the big sunroof in action. Would you consider the new Suzuki SX4 Crossover if the automaker still offered new cars in the U.S.?

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